Moldova's New Unit Tackles Human Trafficking & Border Crime

The Republic of Moldova has inaugurated the new headquarters of its Passenger Information Unit in Chișinău, marking a significant step in strengthening national security and preventing cross-border crimes such as human trafficking and terrorist travel. Supported by the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme, the initiative enhances Moldova’s ability to identify risks early while facilitating safe and orderly cross-border movement. The Passenger Information Unit operates within the General Inspectorate of Border Police and brings together expertise from the Border Police, National Police, Customs Service, and the Security and Intelligence Service. By centralizing these services, the Unit enables faster assessment of alerts, more coordinated responses, and improved use of passenger data to prevent crimes before they occur. Moldova’s authorities emphasized that the new headquarters reflects an investment in modern infrastructure, digital tools, and skilled personnel, ensuring that security decisions are based on accurate data and rapid inter-agency cooperation. The initiative is designed to protect citizens while strengthening institutional efficiency and resilience. The Unit is equipped with the United Nations’ advanced goTravel software, significantly enhancing passenger data collection, analysis, and response capabilities. With this adoption, Moldova becomes the seventh country globally to implement the system, aligning its border management practices with international and European standards. International partners highlighted that the inauguration demonstrates Moldova’s growing commitment to effective migration governance, border security, and international cooperation. The development of the Passenger Information Unit also supports Moldova’s broader alignment with European Union accession principles and global counter-terrorism frameworks. Moldova’s participation in the Countering Terrorist Travel Programme began in 2021 and progressed through phased implementation, including temporary operations in early 2025 and full activation of the goTravel system later that year. Ongoing collaboration with UN agencies and IOM has provided infrastructure upgrades, technical equipment, and specialized training, positioning Moldova as a regional model for integrated, rights-based passenger information management.